New evaluation form for superintendent

The District 20 school board now has a new way to evaluate superintendent Mike Teahon this November and December.

At a noon meeting Monday, the board approved a performance/assessment evaluation.

Board president Scott France said he was frustrated with the one they’ve used because of the numerical rating system, redundancy of questions and because he didn’t feel qualified to judge the superintendent on some of the questions asked.

In other action, the board approved a 2011 financial audit of the district, by McDermott & Miller of Kearney, after listening to highlights of the audit by Teahon.

The only suggestion for improvement is lack of segregation of duties of those in charge of finances because of the small size of the district.

Teahon said the district tries to segregate duties whenever possible and utilizes a random invoice selection process monthly which follows spending.

On another matter, members discussed—but took no action—on a policy outlining admission to kindergarten.

A legislative law lowers the minimum age for admission to kindergarten, allowing parents to enroll a child who will turn 5 between Aug. 1 and Oct. 15 of the school year.

Parents must complete a written request and questionnaire which will be considered by a district evaluation team.

The policy will be voted on at the Dec. 12 meeting as will the 2011 audit.

The board also reviewed summaries of several district policies dealing with community relations and administration.

Policies can be reviewed in the superintendent’s office or online at www.gothenburg.k12.ne.us.

Teahon said that community use of school facilities is included in the policy, noting that fees are waived for student organizations.

In other business, the board:

approved requests from four students who want to enroll in the district—Damian Jahnke, a kindergartner, and Victoria Ockinga, a first grader, both from Cozad; and Jake Burkholder, a third grader, and Gavin Burkholder, a fifth grader, both from Maxwell.

learned that district officials are working with DLR Group to address an ongoing condensation problem in the north gymnasium roof.

were told about an after-school study hall at Dudley Elementary, for students who are referred or who want to finish homework. Last year at this time there 332 referrals compared to 235 this quarter.

were informed that Gothenburg met federal adequate yearly progress in all areas.

heard that school officials will meet with students and parents to discuss appropriate and positive displays of enthusiasm at sporting events.

A meeting for parents is this Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the performing arts center.

were made aware of an atomic learning concept introduced to staff, during an early dismissal, that includes 21st century concepts dealing with technology tutorials and integration.

listened to a report from FFA member Kaylee Beyea, who is treasurer of the greenhouse the organization operates. Beyea is working with district business manager Kay Streeter to set up a general accounting system for the business since it’s part of the district’s annual budget.

Teahon said the greenhouse is not-for-profit but a break even business.

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